Every year, I walk into drafts with a Do Not Draft list. No matter how good the value looks, no matter how much upside someone used to have, these are the guys that turn into deadweight on your roster.
This year, these four RBs top my “Nope” list:
🚫 Joe Mixon (RB15)
Let’s be honest—opportunity is there. But what Mixon’s doing with it? Flatlining.
- 22nd in explosive run rate
- 38th in missed tackles forced/attempt
- 29th in YAC/attempt
He’s not “washed,” but he’s running like he’s late for a Zoom meeting, not a breakaway TD.
At RB15, you’re passing on:
- Rashee Rice
- Marvin Harrison Jr.
- Chuba Hubbard
- George Kittle
All of whom I’d rather take the swing on.
🚫 Javonte Williams (RB38)
I know the value looks nice. But the juice ain’t worth the squeeze.
- 32nd in YPC
- 35th in yards over expected
- 36th in PFF grade
Yes, he’s recovering. But I’ve waited long enough. I’m not interested in running back purgatory.
Give me Tyjae Spears (who the Titans want to see more of), Cam Skattebo (sneaky upside), or Rachaad White (PPR cheat code) instead.
🚫 Travis Etienne (RB35)
His 2024 season? Forgettable.
- RB37 in PPG
- Just 14 touches and 57.6 yards per game after Week 9
- Outplayed by Tank Bigsby—and now he’s in a three-headed committee with Bhayshul Tuten.
This staff targeted Tuten in the draft and can’t stop talking him up.
I’d rather draft Bigsby two picks later, or Zach Charbonnet—who already produced when given the chance and is stepping into a prime opportunity again.
🚫 David Montgomery (RB21)
I love Monty—but I also love honesty.
Gibbs is too good. When Monty missed time, Gibbs averaged over 30 fantasy points per game. And with new OC John Morton—who leans pass-heavy—it’s hard to imagine Monty being more than a culture piece.
There are too many guys I like in this range:
- TreVeyon Henderson
- Quinshon Judkins
- Kaleb Johnson 30 picks later
Monty is still solid. Just not fantasy-relevant enough at this price.
📝 TL;DR: Don’t get trapped by name value or perceived volume. Draft for production and trajectory.
